Sixteen-pointed bronze star representing the points of the compass, on laterally-pierced fleur-de lys suspension; the face with a swooping bald American eagle, a lightning bolt in each claw; the reverse plain; on original ribbon with brooch bar mounted for wear bearing the maker’s mark ‘LI / GI’ (for Lordship Industries, Inc. of Hauppauge, New York). The medal was instituted on 11 May 1942 to be awarded to ‘individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross’. The medal was designed and sculpted by Walker Kirtland Hancock, 1901-1998, famous for his monumental sculptures.
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